Discharge is the term used when a person leaves hospital. This should only happen once a doctor at the hospital decides that the person is 'medically fit'. A person with dementia may have complex needs that should be considered before they can be safely discharged. For example, they may need to move into a care home or need adaptations made to their existing home, such as a stair-lift. Others may need support in their own home or in the home of a relative or friend.

Hospital Discharge Policy

Every hospital has a hospital discharge policy. This is a public document that anyone can ask to see. It should include details of how the hospital staff will arrange the discharge.